Ho Chi Minh City's 200-Year-Old Temple Preserves 173-Year-Old Royal Decree from King Tu Duc
Translated from Vietnamese, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- A nearly 200-year-old ancient temple, Binh Hoa Temple, still preserves a royal decree from King Tu Duc dating back 173 years.
- The temple, recognized as a national architectural art relic in 1993, features intricate carvings and houses numerous historical artifacts.
- The original decree, considered a treasured possession, is carefully preserved and only brought out for special ceremonies seeking peace and favorable weather.
Nestled within the bustling metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City lies Binh Hoa Temple, an ancient sanctuary nearly two centuries old. This architectural gem, officially recognized as a national relic in 1993, offers a serene escape from the urban clamor, its tranquil atmosphere imbued with the scent of incense.
The temple's most prized possession is a royal decree from King Tu Duc, dating back 173 years. This precious artifact, along with other historical items like horizontal boards, couplets, and incense burners, are meticulously preserved by generations of temple custodians. The decree, a symbol of historical continuity and spiritual significance, is treated as a "family treasure."
The Tu Duc royal decree has been considered a "family treasure" by generations of temple custodians.
While replicas are displayed for visitors, the original decree and its accompanying seal are kept securely in a sealed box, revered and displayed only during the annual Ky Yen festival. This rare occasion allows the public and devotees to witness the artifact and pray for peace and prosperity. The decree's remarkable condition, with its intricate dragon motifs and clear calligraphy, speaks to the care it has received over the centuries.
As the temple faces the natural effects of time, plans are underway for renovations to ensure the preservation of this vital cultural and historical site. Binh Hoa Temple stands not just as a place of worship but as a living testament to the enduring architectural and cultural heritage of Southern Vietnam, a treasure that continues to connect the present with its rich past.
The dragon patterns and calligraphy are still clearly visible, showing no signs of fading.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Thanh Niên in Vietnamese. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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